Aiming to link people with expert attorneys, Brookins Community A.M.E. Church and the Brookins Economic Development Corporation (EDC) will kick-off a series of free legal clinics for South Los Angeles residents.

The first workshop takes place on Saturday, March 3, at 2 p.m., in Brookins Fellowship Hall located at 4831 South Gramercy Place in Los Angeles and Pastor C. Dennis Williams is optimistic about the new outreach.

“Our mission is to connect people from all walks of life with volunteer attorneys and valuable information to improve their day-to-day living as well as prepare for the future, so I encourage the community to participate,” said Dr. Williams.

“These are challenging times for so many, yet there are legal actions we can take to ensure a better life for ourselves and our loved ones. Our team of lawyers and professionals will offer advice and resources to help you meet this goal,” added Dolores Bolton, director of Brookins EDC.

Attorney Shahiedah Coates, chair of Brookins Legal Ministry, will manage the series. Throughout her career, she has devoted significant time to pro bono work, counseling nonprofit organizations on formation, taxes, and other concerns.

A specialist in community development and corporate matters, Coates’ professional experience includes handling complex real estate cases at Holland & Knight LLP, a top tier international law firm, and working with public agencies on first amendment, education, development, and government relations issues.

Coates earned her bachelor’s degree at Florida A&M University where she received a full academic scholarship. She received her Juris Doctorate from Harvard Law School. Prior to relocating to California, Coates worked in the United State Senate, completed research for various professors at Harvard Law School, and completed internships at two top-tier law firms.

For more information, call (323) 296-5610 or email bcamelegal@gmail.com